xiv A SUBURBAN FISHERY 261 



were now reversed, and the newly returned 

 brother hurried to his assistance ; between 

 them they eventually landed what was obvi- 

 ously another and even more important 

 veteran. It weighed, in fact, over six 

 pounds. Now it was the second brother 

 who failed to conceal the pride that was in 

 him, and there was more shaking of hands, 

 and by the time I reached the spot the 

 very atmosphere seemed to rejoice ; the 

 sun beamed more brightly and the waters 

 plashed more merrily. Yet I suspect 

 (though I will no more than whisper it) 

 that the first brother may have reflected 

 somewhat ruefully on the insistence of 

 human appetites ; had he not gone away for 

 his luncheon it was probable that both the 

 veterans had fallen to his steel. Indeed, he 

 said so not grudgingly, but as one who 

 states a fact and commented on the turn 

 of fortune that had inspired his brother 

 to fish in his corner and employ his earth- 

 worm. 



This fact disposed of, however, all was 

 joy. Now I, as has been said, came up 

 when the rejoicing was at its height, and 

 rejoiced also for a space. But presently it 



